2009 Audi A3 vs. 1981 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 525 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1981 BMW 525.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1981 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
